UNITE will reballot hundreds of fuel tanker drivers for industrial action at one of the companies involved in the dispute which threatens strikes.

The union said it had discovered that a number of its members employed by Hoyer had not received ballot papers during the original voting last month.

Unite represents around 530 drivers at Hoyer, one of the biggest distribution firms, which delivers fuel to Esso and Shell garages.

The Hoyer workers voted 59.7 per cent in favour of strikes in a turnout of almost 80 per cent in the previous ballot.

"It has come to our attention that a number of people did not receive ballot papers. That is obviously a concern for us because we believe everyone should have a say," said a Unite spokesman.

The union said it remained committed to reaching a negotiated settlement to the dispute over terms and conditions, pensions and health and safety after drivers' leaders rejected a proposed peace deal.

Unite has contacted the conciliation service Acas to ask for fresh talks with the seven companies involved in the dispute.

The union has appealed to motorists not to panic buy petrol, pointing out that no strikes have been set.

Unite has until tomorrow to specify what form of industrial action it plans to take, and will have to give a week's notice of strikes.

The union could call an hour's strike to comply with employment law, without disrupting supplies to garages.

After the row flared last month the Government advised motorists to top up their cars with petrol and to store fuel in jerry cans, leading to panic buying and shortages of supplies.

There were chaotic scenes at garages as long queues built up, leading to criticism of the Government for the way they handled the dispute.

Despite the rejection it is believed that progress was made on a number of issues including pensions, health and safety and training.

Diana Holland, assistant general secretary of Unite, said: "While there has been some progress it is clear that our members need more guarantees and assurances from the employers about their commitment to meaningful minimum standards.

"We remain committed to achieving a negotiated settlement that brings stability and security to a vital industry and gives this workforce, and the public, confidence that the race to the bottom is ending."